History
Founded Feb. 26, 1888, as the Michigan Agricultural Experiment Station, Michigan State University AgBioResearch – as it is known today – continues as part of the nationwide network of agricultural experiment stations created after the passage of the Hatch Act to benefit farmers and deliver agricultural advancements. Today, our focus has broadened to include a robust portfolio not only in food, but health and the environment as well.
Mission
MSU AgBioResearch conducts leading-edge research that combines scientific expertise with practical applications to advance agriculture, sustain natural resources, generate economic prosperity and enhance the quality of life in Michigan and worldwide. Researchers from seven different colleges across the MSU campus – although most are within the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources – seek to discover economically feasible, scientifically based solutions to global challenges such as climate change, water issues, invasive species and increased food production and food safety to meet a rising global population.
Success is based on outstanding partnerships with industry partners, MSU Extension, commodity organizations, governmental funding agencies – notably USDA NIFA – and exceptional legislative support at the state and federal levels. Research is heavily guided by industry and stakeholder input to meet specific needs and address emerging threats.
Scientists
Approximately 300 researchers come from six colleges and across the MSU campus:
- Agriculture and Natural Resources
- Natural Science
- Engineering
- Veterinary Medicine
- Social Science
- Communication Arts and Sciences
Priorities
- Modernized greenhouses and dairy infrastructure.
- Resilient and profitable agriculture and natural resource systems.
- Food safety, health, nutrition and food security.
- Climate adaptation and environmental sciences.
- Natural resources stewardship, including water and conservation of ecosystems health.